Dandelion Root Benefits

Dandelion root serves as a natural remedy for numerous health conditions. Here are the multiple benefits of this miraculous root.

HolisticZine Staff

Last Updated: Sep 11, 2018

Among various traditional herbal remedies, the benefits of dandelion root are highly appreciated in Europe. Though dandelion is a weed, it is highly beneficial for a host of health issues. In Europe, its leaves are used just as lettuce leaves to add healthy greens to a salad, though it is slightly bitter.

These roots are rich in vitamins A, B complex, C, and D, and are extremely rich sources of potassium, iron, and zinc. It is then natural that dandelion root has immense properties, which are useful for anyone, who wishes to lead a healthy life.

Benefits

Detoxifies the Liver

Since dandelion is rich in vitamins, it helps in detoxifying the liver of all unhealthy food, alcohol, and other dangerous toxins. The root has ability to enhance bile production, which helps to clear out all toxins from the liver. It is also effective in preventing the formation of gallstones, however, is not considered beneficial, if one already has them.

Appetite Stimulant

When tea is brewed out of these roots, it works wonders as an appetite stimulant. It is thus, helpful in reviving the appetite of those, undergoing a treatment for a variety of health conditions.

Natural Diuretic and Laxative

Dandelion root has high levels of potassium, that enhance the urine flow. This is useful in preventing health problems like, urinary tract infection and blood pressure, and is also a good herbal remedy for bloating and water retention.

While diuretics drastically affect the potassium levels in the body, this root is a natural diuretic that is free of this side effect. It is also a natural laxative, and generally aids the digestive system for its healthy functioning.

Controls Cholesterol and Blood Sugar Levels

Research studies conducted on animals show that this root has the ability to keep cholesterol and blood sugar levels under control, thus keeping diabetes at bay. Though this has not been proven in humans, dandelion root is anyhow a healthy addition to one's diet and in the long run, will surely have a positive effect on cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

The root has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties that are particularly useful for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. These studies have, however, only been conducted in animals, and there is no proof for this benefit in human beings.

Nonetheless, as mentioned before, it is a healthy addition to one's diet, and as it provides a host of other benefits, there is a possibility for its anti-inflammatory properties to affect human beings too.

Heals Skin Problems

Another benefit of dandelion is that it helps eliminate the toxins in the body that cause skin conditions such as, acne, psoriasis, and eczema. When consumed in the form of tea, it can clear the body of all these skin conditions.

Prevents Cancer

Studies have shown that this root has the ability to fight development of cancerous cells that lead to breast and skin cancer. Again, these studies have not been completely proven, and thus, cannot be recommended as a definite solution to prevent cancer.

Alleviates Depression

It has been found that the root may help alleviate depression and fatigue that is experienced as a result of stress. Also, it is highly beneficial for women, who suffer from these conditions as a result of PMS.

Side Effects

In very rare cases have people reported allergies upon consuming this root. Also, it should be consumed under the guidance of a qualified herbalist, when one is taking other drugs for different reasons. This is because dandelion may affect the functioning of those drugs, and reduce the effect that they have on the body.

Incorporate this magical root in your diet, for a healthy life and overall well-being. It is however, advisable to consult a herbalist before doing so, lest you are sensitive to it.

Disclaimer:This is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.